The Edo South Business Forum has called on security agencies, the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, and all relevant election stakeholders to conduct a thorough investigation into allegations made by Prince Emmanuel Odigie, a member of the Integrity Group within the All Progressives Congress, APC.
The call for an investigation follows claims made by Mr Odigie during an interview on Arise TV on August 15, 2024.
Mr Odigie alleged that the Presidency was planning to rig the forthcoming election in favour of the APC’s gubernatorial candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo.
Osazuwa Imafidon, in a statement on behalf of the forum, expressed serious concern over Mr Odigie’s statements.
“It is deeply troubling to hear such grave allegations, particularly those suggesting that the Presidency might be involved in undermining the democratic process in Edo State.
“We urge security agencies, INEC, and all stakeholders to take these claims seriously and conduct a thorough investigation.
“It is imperative that the upcoming election is free, fair, and credible to prevent any potential threats to our democracy,” Mr Imafidon said.
Additionally, the forum cautioned the All Progressives Congress, APC, against recent tribal rhetoric by its chieftains ahead of the election.
“Senator Adams Oshiomhole’s recent remarks about a PDP chieftain’s mother who is Igbo is unacceptable. We call on the APC to stick to issues and not import tribal politics into Edo state.
“This forthcoming election should be about issues and policies. Any attempt to divide Edo people through tribal slurs will be resisted vehemently, the forum stated.
The statement concluded with a reaffirmation of the forum’s commitment to upholding democratic values and ensuring that the will of the people is respected in the upcoming election.
